Reds, Whites and Rose. How are they different?

Ah, wine. It's pretty darn good stuff, and the reason we all pretend to know what "tannins" are at dinner parties. But let’s face it: the world of wine can be a little overwhelming. Red, white, rosé—what’s the deal? Are they all just grape juice with a fancy label and a higher price tag?  Fear not,  we’re about to explain it all in our most "unfussy" fashion. 

Red Wine: The Big, BolD Hero

How It’s Made:
Red wine is like your intense buddy who always has a story to tell. It’s made from dark grapes, and here’s the biggest factor: the grape skins stay in the mix during fermentation. That’s right—skins, seeds, stems, and all. This skin contact is what gives red wine its deep color, bold flavors, and those fancy tannins that make your mouth feel like it’s been lightly sandpapered.

Flavor Profile:
Red wine is like, the James Bond of wine: sophisticated, complex, and a little dangerous. You can taste everything from dark fruits like blackberries and plums to earthy notes like leather, tobacco. Popular reds include Cabernet Sauvignon (the CEO of wines), Pinot Noir (the sensitive artist), and Merlot (the reliable best friend).

Food Pairings:
Pair red wine with foods that can handle its big taste: think steak, burgers, or a charcuterie board that’s basically a meat rainbow. 

White Wine: The Crisp, Refreshing Bestie

How It’s Made:
White wine is the cool, breezy friend who always knows how to lighten the mood. It’s typically made from green or yellow grapes (although believe it or not - sometimes red grapes make white wine too!), and here’s the twist: the skins are removed before fermentation. No skins, no drama—just pure grape juice turning into something magical. White wine is often fermented at cooler temperatures to keep those fresh, zesty flavors intact.

Flavor Profile:
White wine is like a tropical vacation in a glass. Think citrus, green apple, pear, and sometimes even a splash of pineapple or mango. If it’s aged in oak (Chardonnay, for example), you might get hints of vanilla or butter. Popular whites include Sauvignon Blanc (the life of the party), Pinot Grigio (the easygoing one), and Riesling (the sweetheart with a tangy side).

Food Pairings:
White wine is best for lighter dishes. Seafood, salads, chicken, and anything with a creamy sauce are all fair game. It’s also the go-to for “I’m drinking wine at noon and I don’t care what you think” energy.

Rosé: The Fun, Flirty Wildcard

How It’s Made:
Rosé is the Goldilocks of wines—not too red, not too white, but just right. It’s made from red grapes, but the skins only hang out with the juice for a short time (usually a few hours to a couple of days). This brief flirtation gives rosé its signature pink hue and a flavor that’s as fresh as a summer fling. Some rosés are even made by blending red and white wines!

Flavor Profile:
Rosé is like a fruit salad had a pool party. Strawberries, raspberries, watermelon, and citrus all are part of the package. It’s light, refreshing, and fun. Whether it’s bone-dry or slightly sweet, rosé is the wine that says, “Why so serious?”

Food Pairings:
Rosé is the ultimate crowd-pleaser. It pairs well with everything from grilled veggies to sushi to your mom’s potato salad. 

What Makes Wine Taste the Way It Does?

Great question.  In reality, there are lots of things that contribute to wine's unique flavors:

• Grape Variety: Different grapes bring different vibes. Cabernet Sauvignon is bold; Chardonnay is buttery; Pinot Noir is… complicated.
• Terroir: Fancy word, right?! This refers to the environment where the grapes grow—soil, climate, and all that jazz. It’s like the grape’s hometown pride.
• Winemaking Techniques: Fermentation temperature, aging (oak barrels vs. stainless steel), and even the yeast used can all shape the final flavor.
• Aging: Some wines get better with age (like a fine cheese or your sense of humor). Others are meant to be enjoyed young and fresh, like rosé.

How to Choose Your Wine Soulmate

Choosing between red, white, and rosé is like picking your favorite rom-com: it depends on your mood.

• Feeling fancy? Go red.
• Need a pick-me-up? Grab a white.
• Living your best life? Rosé all day.

And remember, the best wine is the one you enjoy drinking.  This is a core philosophy for us at Bunnycup.   Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise unless they’re paying for the bottle. Then, by all means, let them talk!

Stay Unfussy! 🍷